10/12/10
Wales’ most innovative businesses focus on military protection and green technologies
A turbocharged technology business and a blast-proof underwear manufacturer have been named the two most innovative businesses in Wales at the Wales Quality and Innovation Awards.
Llanelli-based firm Aeristech Ltd, has developed novel turbocharger technology which significantly enhances fuel efficiency in vehicle engines while reducing emissions, and was named joint winner of the Wales Innovation Award.
Aeristech’s patented system, hybrid turbocharger technology allows vehicles to combust fuel far more effectively at low revs than vehicles fitted with conventional turbochargers. As a result, Aeristech’s system enables vehicle manufacturers to build smaller engines with the same level of performance as larger engines and which can generate up to 30% in fuel savings. It also reduces exhaust emissions by up to 30%.
Sharing the most innovative business accolade is military accessories provider BCB International which provides servicemen and women with protection against blast injury to the groin and other lower body damage with its Blast Boxers.
BCB International Ltd is a designer and wholesaler of survival equipment based in Cardiff, South Wales. The company started in 1854 as a chemistry company that provided cough medicine to the troops during the Crimean war. From here the evolution of the company has seen it meet the demands and needs of millions of individuals in military, civilian and aid environments.
Run by the Wales Quality Centre, in association with Penn Pharma and supported by Hugh James Solicitors, the Wales Innovation Award aims to identify Wales’ most innovative organisations and is open to entries from the public, private and charitable sectors. This year’s competition attracted entries from across Wales.
Bryn Richards, chief executive of Aeristech, said: “The motor industry is now seeking to bring the highest efficiency, lowest cost turbo systems into its supply chain and it is forecast that by 2014 around 75% of all European light vehicles will be boosted by turbo technology. We are delighted to have won this award which is a reflection of the progress that we have made in developing our unique Hybrid Turbocharger Technology in Wales.”
Will Hocking, head of research and development at BCB International, said: “If you see someone with an amputation, you often assume that is the only injury. But there can also be other hidden injuries which can have significant psychological and emotional impact. Our Blast Boxers protect servicemen and women from such injuries. Helping people is what drives us to think outside the box and be innovative. Getting positive feedback and letters of thanks from soldiers has made us proud of the product and winning this award just tops it all off.
David Phillips, WQC chief executive, said: “Our challenge as business leaders around Wales is to inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs and to foster a creative economy that looks beyond traditional business models and embraces emerging technologies, practices and developments.
“In order to keep Welsh businesses moving forward, innovation will be key, but we need to instil the spirit of innovation not only in our current business men and women but also in those who will lead our businesses in the future. If we do this, Wales will be at the forefront of international business and will able to unlock its potential for a great future if we can inspire and nurture new talent now.”
For more information about the Wales Innovation Award please contact the Wales Quality Centre on tel: 01656 652 063; or visit the website at: www.walesqualitycentre.org.uk
